Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the US since 1949. This month is observed with media & local events to raise awareness & educated the public about mental illness. 18.1% of Americans suffer from depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. The purpose of observing mental health month is to draw attention to the realities of people living with these mental conditions and the strategies for attaining mental wellness.

Mental Illnesses can affect many different aspects of a person’s life such as: their thought process, emotions, moods, behavior, sense of self, capacity to connect with others & the ability to cope with stress.

The various agencies available to asssist people with mental illness were depicted by the numerous booths around the Courthouse Square. A larger bike was available to ride around a route at the square. The Drum Cafe provide various sizes of drums that people were allowed to play during the Drum Cafe’s demonstration. Nutritious food (carrots provided by the Extension Office), exercise, music and participation in games can help alleviate some forms of mental illness. Many of the booths provided games for people to participate in.

Mercedes Helms entertained us & made us laugh with her Hula Hoop demonstration. She was able to keep the hoop up for over a minute. She stated “once you loose your concentration, the hoop falls.” She challenged people passing by our booth to try the Hula Hoop. Many did, but only a few had success.